Steam WhistleCirca 1900Donated by Paul Labas2003.015.0005

Steam technology transformed the industry by making many tasks less labor intensive than they were previously. Steam engines were used to lift, move, and deposit slate. Steam also enhanced communication. Steam whistles, like this one, produce a sound with a higher frequency than other whistles, which allowed alerts to reach more people. The whistle signaled starting and quitting times and alerted workers to blasting times.

Rising & Nelson quarry of West Pawlet, Vermont, used this particular brass steam whistle during the 1900’s. Workers of the Rising & Nelson Quarry answered the call of the signals of this steam whistle daily while other workers throughout the Slate Valley responded to similar devices.